Egyptian investor, Naguib Sawiris intends to promote an investment of €220 million for the creation of a marina at Ayia Napa.

Mr. Sawiris, accompanied by the Minister of Commerce, had a meeting with President Anastasiades at noon.

During the meeting, it was agreed that the operations for the construction of the marina will commence in 2015.

In statements after the meeting, Mr. Sawiris said he invests in Cyprus because he loves, it, he likes its people and it is located just 40 minutes from the Egyptian capital.

"The weather is great and the beaches are excellent. Our goal is again to highlight Ayia Napa as a top tourism destination in the region. Ayia Napa can accommodate people who want to get an apartment or a house in the area”.

Replying to a question in relation to the creation of a casino, the Egyptian businessman clarified that he is not interested because it is against his principles.

On his part, Commerce Minister, Giorgos Lakkotrypis, said Mr. Sawiris’s choice to invest in Cyprus is a vote of confidence for Cyprus, stressing that it will add to the tourist product of the island.